About the BookDuring a time when legends were born . . . ENRICHED A wealthy noblewoman with a heart of gold, a wounded knight closed off to love, and the sacrifices for a chalice that can bring healing. Lady Karina lives in a convent and expects to become a nun someday. When her wealthy father asks her to help his textile business become more successful by marrying one of the popular Knights of Brethren, Karina complies, ever the dutiful daughter. During a royal quest to find the sacred chalice, Torvald is called home to save his family’s estate through an arranged marriage to a wealthy maiden. Although willing to do his duty, he’s vowed never to give his heart to anyone after watching his father suffer heartbreak over a woman. As Torvald weds the kind and lovely Karina, he resists the pull of attraction to his bride. Even though Karina feels the sting of Torvald’s rejection, she chooses to love him unconditionally. As he resumes his search for the chalice and puts his life in jeopardy, Karina makes the ultimate sacrifice for him. Will he have the chance to love her in return before it’s too late? About the AuthorJody Hedlund is an award-winning and bestselling author of inspirational historical romances for both youth and adults. As a busy mama-writer, she has the wonderful privilege of teaching her crew of 5 children at home. In between grading math papers and giving spelling tests, she occasionally does a load of laundry and washes dishes. When she's not busy being a mama, you can find her in front of her laptop working on another of her page-turning stories. She loves reading almost as much as she loves writing, especially when it also involves chocolate and coffee. ReviewEnriched is a fabulous addition to author Jody Hedlund’s sweet fairytale style medieval romance Knights of Brethren series. Readers will love the fiery redhead, Lady Karina, and the chalice searching knight, Torvald. With an arranged marriage, the two join together, both trying to help and please their families. A story of duty, danger, heartache, rejection, deception, and unconditional love, Hedlund has written a beautiful, adventure filled and captivating romantic story that readers will be charmed by. The fourth book in the series, this splendid book continues the brilliant story of the holy grail. Readers will not want to put this charming book down.
Series: Knights of Brethren Genre: Medieval, fantasy, historical, romance Publisher: Northern Lights Press Publication date: July 12, 2022 Number of pages: 236 Other books in the series: 1-Enamored 2-Entwined 3-Ensnared 5-Enflamed (coming Aug 2022) 6-Entrusted (coming Sept 2022) Disclosure statement: A complimentary review copy of this book was provided from tour groups, publishers, publicists, authors, and others, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, Or borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR borrowed from Deseret Bookshelf, OR pre-ordered/purchased for review, including Audible. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are my own.
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About the BookHis to protect When Vera broke Venn’s heart, he was shattered. When she was abducted by mercenaries, he vowed to tear Mortise apart to find her. Now, reunited, he is determined to keep her safe–and win back her heart. Of course, things are never that simple. Hers to defend Vera has regretted hurting Venn ever since that fateful night in Wexon, but finding the right time to tell him is proving difficult. Traveling with him to Duvan should give her the perfect opportunity, but things take an unexpected turn when they find young children abandoned near a roadside. Theirs to save Helping the children isn’t in question, but the detour leads Venn and Vera into the heart of a sinister mystery. The truth they fight to uncover could change everything in Eyrinthia–and may cost them their lives. Shield & Blade is book 3.5 in the Fate of Eyrinthia YA fantasy romance series. It is best enjoyed after reading Royal Captive. ExcerptVenn was taking a drink when Vera stilled. So attuned to her, he lowered the water skin at once. “What?” Her brow furrowed as she twisted to peer into the trees behind them. “I thought I heard . . .” Venn strained his ears, and after a few heartbeats he heard it, too. Soft and distant, a muffled cry. They both came to their feet. Venn grabbed one of the daggers at his belt and handed it to her. “Stay with the horse.” Vera took the blade with a frown. “But—” “It could just be an animal,” Venn said. “But it could also be some kind of a trap. Let me scout the area first.” She didn’t look happy about remaining behind, but she nodded. Venn palmed another dagger and slid between trees, angling in the direction the sound had originated. It wasn’t long before he heard it again—an almost cracking cry that ended sharply—and he altered his course slightly. He stepped carefully, picking his way among the underbrush and steering clear of anything that might give away his presence. The next time he heard the cry, there was no mistaking it—an infant’s shriek, new and weak. Venn’s heart lurched and he stepped faster. He knew that sound, because he remembered his little sister’s birth. She’d had that particular newborn cry for a period of weeks only. His three nieces had been the same. Finally, he spotted a blanket. Gray and threadbare, it was bunched up on the ground between two large rocks. A tiny fist had punched through the folds, but the baby’s face was hidden. The cry was thin—more of a whimper, edged with a whine. Venn dropped his knife and pulled down the blanket, already making a cooing noise he only ever had for his nieces. The infant’s eyes were closed, and her small face was scrunched up. The babe’s frown was deep, making a jutting island of her chin. She had pinkish skin, but there was no hiding that she was Devendran. Fates, she was so small. She could only be a week or two old. She was wearing a small child’s shirt that drowned her, and it was filthy. She had no soiling cloth, though a quick inspection showed no wounds or sign of abuse, other than some insect bites on her arms and legs. She couldn’t have been abandoned for long, then. Venn kept murmuring to her as he checked her over, and then—satisfied that touching her wouldn’t hurt her—he scooped her into his arms, cradling her small and fragile body against his chest. Her downy hair was dark and matted to her head, and she instantly started rooting as she nuzzled against him. He gave her the edge of his thumb, and she gummed it furiously. His heart broke. “Where is your mother, little one?” She obviously had no answers. She merely pulled desperately at his thumb, her entire body squirming. A twig snapped behind him. Venn clutched the babe to his chest with one broad hand as he whirled, his free hand diving for his blade. He didn’t draw it, though. A boy—probably only seven or eight—stood across the small clearing. He clutched a small bundle of wet cloth in one hand, and a dagger too large for his hand in the other. He was Devendran, with sunburnt skin and brown hair, and though terror was in his eyes, so was anger. “Put down my sister, or I’ll gut you.” About the AuthorHeather Frost writes mostly YA fiction and has a soft spot for tortured characters, breath-stealing romance, and happy endings. She is the author of the Seers trilogy and the upcoming Fate of Eyrinithia series. She has a BS in Creative Writing and a minor in Folklore, which means she got to read fairy tales and ghost stories and call it homework. When she’s not writing, Heather likes to read, travel, and hold Lord of the Rings movie marathons. She owns two typewriters, sings in the car, and dreams of living in a castle someday. She currently lives in a beautiful valley surrounded by towering mountains in Utah. To learn more about Heather and her books, visit her website: www.HeatherFrost.com. ReviewAs always, author Heather Frost captures readers with the turn of the first page. Another fast paced story filled with adventure, intrigue, and romance. This story focuses on the broken relationship between Vera and Venn. It’s about their past regrets and how to best move forward with life without each other. Or does it need to be without? Readers will just have to dive into this story to find out. An engaging and fabulously written story that picks right where book three’s cliffhanger leaves off. Readers will not want to miss this next book in the fabulous Fate of Eyrinthia series.
Series: Fate of Eyrinthia Genre: young adult, fantasy Publisher: Indie Publication date: July 14, 2022 Number of pages: 241 Other books in the series: 0.5-Fire & Ash 1-Royal Decoy 2-Royal Spy 3-Royal Captive Disclosure statement: A complimentary review copy of this book was provided from tour groups, publishers, publicists, authors, and others, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, Or borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR borrowed from Deseret Bookshelf, OR pre-ordered/purchased for review, including Audible. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are my own. About the BookDuring a time when legends were born . . . ENSNARED A poor maidservant struggling to survive, a brave knight who secretly loves her, and a chalice that has the power to unite them. Nursemaid to the Earl of Likness’s two young daughters, Mikaela despises the earl for his cruelty to his subjects, and she longs for the day when she can make a difference in the lives of her suffering friends and family. As one of the Knights of Brethren, Gunnar is on a mission to find the sacred chalice for the queen, convinced it’s the cure for her deadly bleeding disease. His quest takes him home, and he soon learns his brother, the earl, may know more about the chalice than he lets on. As Gunnar reunites with Mikaela, the maiden he’s always loved, he tries to keep his feelings for her a secret, desperate to protect her from his brother. But as they venture into the perilous Hardanger Forest and battle to survive, will Gunnar realize her love is worth fighting for? The real story of the Holy Grail . . . About the AuthorJody Hedlund is an award-winning and bestselling author of inspirational historical romances for both youth and adults. As a busy mama-writer, she has the wonderful privilege of teaching her crew of 5 children at home. In between grading math papers and giving spelling tests, she occasionally does a load of laundry and washes dishes. When she's not busy being a mama, you can find her in front of her laptop working on another of her page-turning stories. She loves reading almost as much as she loves writing, especially when it also involves chocolate and coffee. ReviewJody Hedlund has crafted another sweet, thrilling, and fairytale style medieval romance in Ensnared. This story focuses on the unlikely relationship between Gunner, a knight, and Mikaela, a maid servant. They have been friends from childhood, but run in completely different circles, due to their status differences. Throughout the story their friendship blossoms into romance, as they work together to overcome the best of the forest. Although a retelling of the Holy Grail, the story focuses more on the relationship between Gunner and Mikaela than the actual story of the Holy Grail. Readers may want a bit more detail on the Holy Grail and finding the chalice part of the story, but will not be disappointed with the sweet romance. This is a story that readers will delight in.
Series: Knights of Brethren Genre: Medieval, fantasy, historical, romance Publisher: Northern Lights Press Publication date: June 14, 2022 Number of pages: 246 Other books in the series: 1-Enamored 2-Entwined 4-Enriched (coming July 2022) 5-Enflamed (coming Aug 2022) 6-Entrusted (coming Sept 2022) Disclosure statement: A complimentary review copy of this book was provided from tour groups, publishers, publicists, authors, and others, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, Or borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR borrowed from Deseret Bookshelf, OR pre-ordered/purchased for review, including Audible. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are my own. About the BookA DECOY trapped in a dangerous lie A SERJAH searching for the truth A PRINCE caught in a deadly game A WORLD choked by secrets Abducted during a devastating ambush, Clare is now the captive of ruthless mercenaries. Dragged through the wilderness while grieving heart-rending loss, she must maintain the illusion that she is the princess. Because if she lets the mask slip, even for a moment, the Mortisians will have no reason to keep her alive. After arresting traitors close to the crown, Desfan fights to rebuild his court, knowing that the imminent arrival of the Devendran princess will further upset the precarious balance in Mortise. But Desfan’s world is rocked when he discovers a rumor that rewrites the most devastating event in his life. He will stop at nothing to find the truth–no matter where it leads. As Grayson struggles to find his footing in Mortise, he discovers new friends and enemies. His life is further complicated by the tenuous alliance with his spymaster brother. With secrets deepening around him, Grayson must decide where his loyalties truly lie. Through it all, his heart remains in Ryden with Mia. Unfortunately, his love for her is no secret, and the Black Hand is a coveted weapon . . . Eyrinthia holds its breath as allies and enemies collide. Secrets. Lies. Betrayals. Nothing will be the same. Royal Captive is book 3 in the Fate of Eyrinthia YA fantasy romance series, and should be read in order. If you like swoon-worthy romance, complex characters, and non-stop action with epic twists, then you’ll love the captivating world of Eyrinthia! Books in the SeriesNEW TO EYRINTHIA? GET BOOK 1 FOR FREE DURING THE VIRTUAL TOUR! Royal Decoy (Fate of Eyrinthia #1) is currently FREE on Kindle (U.S.) Grab it HERE. ***The series is also available on Kindle Unlimited!*** Excerpt from Royal Captive...Without quite knowing how it happened, Grayson walked the streets of Duvan with Imara on his arm and her bodyguard shadowing close behind. There was an uncomfortable twist in his gut and his cheeks felt too warm, though that could have been from the Mortisian summer heat. Cooking meats sizzled, spicing the air with an array of exotic peppers and spices. Men and women called out wares, children laughed and raced around the large market square, and those now-familiar purple flags fluttered everywhere. Music drifted among the stalls and some men and women sang, eager for every coin dropped in their cup. “It’s more beautiful than I imagined,” Imara said, her eyes alight as she took everything in. Grayson’s view of things was decidedly different. The square was overcrowded, chaotic, and far too loud. Assassins and thieves alike would thrive in such an environment. He kept his gaze moving over the continually shifting crowd. Imara’s turquoise skirt swished against his leg as they walked, and she only released his arm when they reached a cart selling a variety of drinks. She chose one made from lemons and small red berries. She claimed it was tangy but sweet. Grayson asked for water. Imara watched him over the rim of her cup. “Are you sure you don’t want to try this?” “I’m sure.” Just the smell made his mouth pinch. She shrugged her narrow shoulders. She really was very short; her head barely reached his chest. After swallowing another sip, she said, “You’re quiet.” “I don’t have anything to say.” Conversation was not a gift he possessed. “That’s all right. I have a hundred questions! Now, let’s see . . . Is it true you made your first kill when you were three years old?” Grayson choked on his water, coughing harshly as he whipped his head toward her. “What?” “That’s how the story goes in Zennor,” she said easily. “The Black Viper learned the art of killing in the nursery—the way all Ryden children do—but he loved death more than the others. He killed his nursemaid when he was three and drank her blood, and he’s never gotten enough of the taste since.” Grayson blinked at her. There were no words. Her mouth twitched. “I’m assuming it’s not true, then?” He finally managed to find his voice. “No.” She bobbed her head. “After meeting you, I didn’t think it could be true. You’re not half as intimidating as your reputation.” That didn’t exactly sound like a compliment. Before he could make any response, Imara fired off her next question. “Is it true your mother has a poison garden?” From the corner of his eye, he could see her bodyguard’s hand on his knife. It had probably gone there at her last question, though Grayson had been too busy choking to notice. “She does,” he confirmed. “How interesting. My mother only embroiders.” Grayson snorted. Imara grinned. “There! The Black Viper can laugh. Another rumor, utterly wrecked.” About the AuthorHeather Frost writes mostly YA fiction and has a soft spot for tortured characters, breath-stealing romance, and happy endings. She is the author of the Seers trilogy and the upcoming Fate of Eyrinithia series. She has a BS in Creative Writing and a minor in Folklore, which means she got to read fairy tales and ghost stories and call it homework. When she’s not writing, Heather likes to read, travel, and hold Lord of the Rings movie marathons. She owns two typewriters, sings in the car, and dreams of living in a castle someday. She currently lives in a beautiful valley surrounded by towering mountains in Utah. To learn more about Heather and her books, visit her website: www.HeatherFrost.com. Pre-order gift: The Captain and the Troublemakers Pre-order ROYAL CAPTIVE (Fate of Eyrinthia #3) in any format, then fill out the form below to receive an exclusive short story: The CAPTAIN AND THE TROUBLEMAKERS. About the Story: When Wilf steps in for Bennick’s father during an important rite of passage at the military academy, he gets more than he bargained for. Eleven-year-old Bennick has a fight to pick with another student—a boy named Venn Grannard . . . The story will be emailed to you after ROYAL CAPTIVE releases on March 18th. Here is the link to the form: https://forms.gle/nDubVYVaB7EPYRfh8 Thank you for pre-ordering! ReviewAuthor Heather Frost has written another captivating and enthralling story in her third book in the Fate of Eyrinthia series. After leaving readers with a chaotic cliff hanger ending in book two, she continues the entrancing story in book three. Secrets, lies, betrayal. There is definitely a lot going on in this story, especially with it written from multiple points of view, but Frost ensures that readers can follow and understand what is going with all of the captivating characters by including character chapter headers. This is a fast paced, action packed story that will have readers on the edge of their seats through the many plot twists in this epic tale. Readers will definitely want to pick up this book!
Series:Fate of Eyrinthia Genre: young adult, fantasy, romance Publisher: Indie Publication date: March 18, 2022 Number of pages:680 Other books in the series: 1-Royal Decoy 2-Royal Spy Novellas Fire and Ash Shield and Blade (coming July 2022) Disclosure statement: A complimentary review copy of this book was provided from tour groups, publishers, publicists, authors, and others, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, Or borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR borrowed from Deseret Bookshelf, OR pre-ordered/purchased for review, including Audible. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are my own. About the BookDuring a time when legends were born . . . ENTWINED A princess cursed from birth, a loyal knight worthy of being king, and a sword that can determine their destiny. After growing up on a remote farm, Lis learns she is the rightful heir to the throne of Norvegia. Even as she does her part to thwart a dangerous plot against the king, she resists pursuing her new identity and resigns herself to a simple life helping her elderly father with their farm. With the king losing his mind, Sir Ansgar, the highest knight in the land, is desperate to save the sovereign he’s sworn to protect. But before Ansgar can uncover what is causing the king’s demise, he finds himself falsely accused of treason and dismissed from court. In danger of losing his life, Ansgar takes refuge on Lis’s farm. Love soon blossoms between Ansgar and Lis, even as they realize a future together is impossible. Yet they must unite to save the kingdom from ever-growing forces of evil. Are their destinies entwined? Or will they be ripped apart forever? The real story of Excalibur continues . . . About the AuthorJody Hedlund is an award-winning and bestselling author of inspirational historical romances for both youth and adults. As a busy mama-writer, she has the wonderful privilege of teaching her crew of 5 children at home. In between grading math papers and giving spelling tests, she occasionally does a load of laundry and washes dishes. When she's not busy being a mama, you can find her in front of her laptop working on another of her page-turning stories. She loves reading almost as much as she loves writing, especially when it also involves chocolate and coffee. ReviewAuthor Jody Hedlund does not disappoint with her young adult, fantasy, medieval fairytales. Just as the first book in this series, Entwined is an action-packed, romance-filled, story that readers will adore and not want to put down. It’s the story of a lost princess, who grew up not knowing she was a princess. It’s about brave knights and learning to become a princess. It has deadly plots, espionage, and of course sweet romance. Readers will be charmed by this story from the turn of every page.
Series: Knights of Brethren Genre: young adult, fantasy, retelling, fairytale, historical, medieval, romance Publisher: Northern Lights Press Publication date: December 7, 2021 Number of pages: 238 Other books in the series: 1-Enamored 3-Ensnared (coming June 2022) 4-Enriched (coming July 2022) Disclosure statement: A complimentary review copy of this book was provided from tour groups, publishers, publicists, authors, and others, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, Or borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR borrowed from Deseret Bookshelf, OR pre-ordered/purchased for review, including Audible. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are my own. About the BookDuring a time when legends were born . . . ENAMORED A princess in need of a husband, a young Sage who cannot have her, and a web of deceit that threatens their love. Having been raised by her childless aunt and uncle, the king and queen, Princess Elinor finds herself the only heir to the throne of Norvegia. As she comes of age, she must choose a husband to rule beside her, but she struggles to make her selection from among a dozen noblemen during a weeklong courtship. With aspirations to become the wisest man in the land, Maxim is summoned home by his father Rasmus, a Royal Sage. Reunited with Elinor, once his closest friend, Maxim is quickly enamored with her even though he can never be considered a prospect for her husband. Elinor’s feelings for Maxim are rekindled too . . . until she learns he has been unwillingly drawn into Rasmus’s scheme to take control of the throne. With the kingdom under attack both from within and without, can Elinor and Maxim overcome the deceit spinning around them? Or will it destroy their love once and for all? The real story of Excalibur. About the AuthorJody Hedlund is an award-winning and bestselling author of inspirational historical romances for both youth and adults. As a busy mama-writer, she has the wonderful privilege of teaching her crew of 5 children at home. In between grading math papers and giving spelling tests, she occasionally does a load of laundry and washes dishes. When she's not busy being a mama, you can find her in front of her laptop working on another of her page-turning stories. She loves reading almost as much as she loves writing, especially when it also involves chocolate and coffee. ReviewFrom the turn of the first page, readers will be sucked into Jody Hedlund’s action-packed, romance-filled, novel, Enamored. This story is full of engaging characters, adventure, and swoony romance that readers will absolutely not want to put down. A medieval retelling of the magnificent sword Excalaber, readers will be enthralled and charmed by this fabulous story. Once again Hedlund has delivered a story that readers will get entirely caught up in, forgetting everything else around them. An excellent addition to the world of young adult books.
Series: Knights of Brethren Genre: young adult, fantasy, retelling, fairytale, historical, medieval, romance Publisher: Northern Lights Press Publication date: November 9, 2021 Number of pages: 252 Other books in the series: 2-Entwined (coming December 2021) Disclosure statement: A complimentary review copy of this book was provided from tour groups, publishers, publicists, authors, and others, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, Or borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR borrowed from Deseret Bookshelf, OR pre-ordered/purchased for review, including Audible. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are my own. About the Book2021 Selah Awards Finalist A father… A son… and the dragon they became. One head: Malevolent, attired in barbs and spines, took pleasure in decimating the forested village. Avery, formerly White Boar, wanders the forests seeking forgiveness from the people he sold into slavery, but is repentance payment enough? Righteous, with two horns on each side, tried to calm the evil one’s violent ambition. More servant than son, Jonathan Gudwyne had been powerless to stop his father from taking the Men of the Forest into captivity. As a man, White Wolf reverses the damage he and his father caused by returning the Natives home. Jonathan gains honor and worship, but what does he do with the remains of his past? Justice has yet to be served to the dragon. Should Jonathan be the one who administers the sentence to his wandering father? To himself? The two heads formed Brinsop, whose iron talons wrought chaos…. Can a man change? Can a broken family be made whole again? If one head is destroyed can the other survive? About the AuthorTammy lives in Michigan's Upper Peninsula near the shores of Lake Superior with her husband and three teen/adult children. Currently, they are working together on their “new” home just outside the Hiawatha National Forest she writes about in her stories. Tammy enjoys hiking, kayaking, beach wandering,”hunting” for birch bark, and spotting migizis. She is the author of White Wolf and the Ash Princess, Letters from the Dragon's Son, and the short story Eagle Eyes from the Descendants of White Wolf series. ReviewBook two in the White Wolf series, Letters from the Dragon’s Son, also starts off slow. It’s a little hard to get into, but if readers stick with it, they will enjoy it. The story is about redemption and overcoming past mistakes. It’s about forsaking past wrongs and trying to atone for those wrongs. This tale builds upon the story presented in the first book in the series, White Wolf and the Ash Princess. An interesting and intriguing story that readers of the first book in the series will enjoy.
Series: White Wolf Genre: young adult, historical, Christian Publisher: Castle Top Publication date: November 6, 2020 Number of pages: 466 Other books in the series: 1-White Wolf and the Ash Princess Disclosure statement: A complimentary review copy of this book was provided from tour groups, publishers, publicists, authors, and others, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, Or borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR borrowed from Deseret Bookshelf, OR pre-ordered/purchased for review, including Audible. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are my own. About the BookThe Grace Award Finalist Memory loss prohibits Izzy from remembering her life before age seven when she suffered a terrible trauma that left her with physical scars. Crippling panic keeps Izzy from wandering beyond the stables but Tubs, the Gudwyne’s young stable boy, encourages Izzy to go beyond the property’s rock wall into a world that promises possible answers but also great danger. While running to escape his past, Jonathan Gudwyne rescued Izzy and took her in, but who did she belong to before he became her guardian? With the touch of the wolf’s great paw, the girl rose out of the ashes a woman—a mighty warrior armed with a copper axe. A mysterious cellar filled with secrets sets Izzy on a path to the New World where the Wendigo wanders and Water Panther swims. In the wilds of seventeenth-century America, Izzy and Jonathan discover the legends of the New World aren’t the fairytales of their library home in England. About the AuthorTammy lives in Michigan's Upper Peninsula near the shores of Lake Superior with her husband and three teen/adult children. Currently, they are working together on their “new” home just outside the Hiawatha National Forest she writes about in her stories. Tammy enjoys hiking, kayaking, beach wandering,”hunting” for birch bark, and spotting migizis. She is the author of White Wolf and the Ash Princess, Letters from the Dragon's Son, and the short story Eagle Eyes from the Descendants of White Wolf series. ReviewAlthough the cover is a little misleading, causing some readers to believe it is a fantasy story, readers will be pleasantly surprised with this intriguing and beautifully written young adult historical fiction story with ties to some Native American legends. The story has a bit of a slow beginning, but readers stick with the story, they will be pleased that they did. The story has an intriguing twist where 17th Century England meets the American frontier, adding to the fascinating story. The characters are interesting and come to life as readers turn from one page to the next. One of the main character’s Izzy, struggles with memory loss, but is rescued by Jonathan who tries to help her regain her memory, which is both scary and dangerous. This story may not be what readers expect, but it’s fun just the same. Readers will find this story entertaining and engaging.
Series: White Wolf Genre: young adult, historical, Christian Publisher: Castle Top Publication date: November 7, 2020 Number of pages: 337 Other books in the series: 2-Letter’s From the Dragon’s Son (coming November 2021) Disclosure statement: A complimentary review copy of this book was provided from tour groups, publishers, publicists, authors, and others, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, Or borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR borrowed from Deseret Bookshelf, OR pre-ordered/purchased for review, including Audible. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are my own. About the BookA DECOY recruited to be a spy. A PRINCE compelled to become an assassin. A SERJAH pressured by an unwanted crown. A WORLD covered in shadows. Mere months ago, Clare was just a kitchen maid. Now, she is a decoy for Princess Serene and a novice spy, caught in the royal family's web of secrets. While journeying to Mortise to finalize the princess’s betrothal to Serjah Desfan, Clare lives for the stolen moments she has with Bennick, the bodyguard who is quickly claiming her heart. But when a notorious assassin is hired to kill her, Clare’s life and the alliance hang in the balance. In Ryden, Grayson prepares to leave for Mortise with his brother, Liam. Their orders are to ignite a war between their enemies, and Grayson has been tasked with assassinating Princess Serene. It may cost his soul, but he is ready to comply, as long as he gets something in return: freedom for Mia, the girl he loves. But the more time he spends with his brother, the more he begins to wonder if Liam is what Grayson wishes he had the courage to be . . . a traitor. Desfan feels trapped. By his disapproving council, his impending marriage to a stranger, and the imminent arrival of enemy princes who may not want the peace they profess. When a dangerous drug threatens his people, Desfan jumps at the chance to rely on his swords instead of politics. But his investigation uncovers more than he bargained for—a plot that may destroy Mortise from within. Eyrinthia hovers on the edge of war. Spies. Rebels. Traitors. All must choose a side. About the AuthorHeather Frost writes mostly YA fiction and has a soft spot for tortured characters, breath-stealing romance, and happy endings. She is the author of the Seers trilogy and the upcoming Fate of Eyrinithia series. She has a BS in Creative Writing and a minor in Folklore, which means she got to read fairy tales and ghost stories and call it homework. When she’s not writing, Heather likes to read, travel, and hold Lord of the Rings movie marathons. She owns two typewriters, sings in the car, and dreams of living in a castle someday. She currently lives in a beautiful valley surrounded by towering mountains in Utah. To learn more about Heather and her books, visit her website: www.HeatherFrost.com. Pre-order GiftPre-order Royal Spy and get an EXCLUSIVE short story from Bennick's POV! Pre-order Gift Form: https://forms.gle/uQtyD4SboRAeNBtYA About the story: Bennick is a royal bodyguard, prepared for anything—except Clare Ellington. THE DECOY AND THE BODYGUARD follows Bennick and Clare during their first day together, but from Bennick’s POV. Of course, things go terribly wrong . . . Excerpt“By order of the regent,” Arcas boomed, “this warehouse is being seized for inspection on suspicion of illegal activity. Stay where you are and surrender your weapons!” The smugglers didn’t seem impressed. One lifted a crossbow and Desfan dodged left to avoid the fired dart. The clang of steel rang out as the guards crossed swords with the smugglers, the sound echoing high in the lofty warehouse. One of the smugglers bolted for a side door and Desfan ran after him. He leaped over a row of crates, rather than skirt around them. As he came down, his booted heel caught the edge of one and he stumbled—but he didn’t stop. The smuggler had nearly reached the exit when he glanced back and saw Desfan. The middle-aged man glared, but there was an edge of fear. Even without a crown, it was clear the man knew who Desfan was. The distinctive double blades were a pretty easy marker. Besides, after almost five years patrolling the sea, every smuggler from Zennor to Ryden knew of Desfan Cassian. The man raised his sword just in time to meet Desfan’s downward swing. The blow vibrated up to his shoulder. “Going somewhere?” Desfan smiled. The smuggler only growled. He was wider than Desfan, with thick arms that bulged with muscle. But Desfan was tall and lithe, and he used that to his advantage as he fought with both swords, slowly maneuvering until he blocked the man’s path to the nearest door. Fury sparked in his eyes and he battered Desfan’s parrying blows with more power, striking fast and hard. Desfan ducked and spun, making a shallow slice to the man’s left side. The smuggler snarled, but before he could retaliate, Desfan delivered a kick in his back, sending the man crashing into a pile of crates. The wood buckled beneath his weight, snapping loudly as the pile collapsed. The smuggler’s legs were visible in the wreckage, but he wasn’t moving. Desfan moved forward to check on the man, praying he was only unconscious—the kiv would want him for questioning—but movement from the corner of his eye drew his attention to a nearby table. A small shape huddled underneath. In the dim light of the lamps, it looked like a child. He halted, aiming his swords at the ground as he moved carefully toward the table. “Easy,” he said to the crouched figure. “You won’t be harmed.” The shadow recoiled, scrambling out from under the table and shooting up on the other side. The boy was maybe eleven years old. Dirt streaked his face and blood dripped from his nose. He wore a torn red vest and his bare arms were marred with the beginnings of several bruises. A dark tattoo was inked around his wrist and the whole area was rubbed raw—he’d been bound recently. Bound and beaten. Desfan’s stomach clenched. Anger rose, but he kept that out of his expression as he faced the boy. “You’re safe now,” he said. “I promise, they won’t—” The boy threw a knife at him. The blade was so small, Desfan hadn’t even noticed it in his hand. Desfan cursed as he dodged the knife. As he spun, the boy dove for a small crate on the floor. Before he could grab it, a dagger thunked into the wood, a breath from the boy’s thin fingers. He jerked back, darting a look at the man who’d thrown the blade. It was the smuggler Desfan had kicked into the crates. He was back on his feet, blood wetting the side of his shirt and his temple. He snarled furiously, already reaching for another dagger. “You’re dead, Ori!” The boy’s battered face paled. He scrambled back from the crate, his horrified eyes stuck on the man prepared to kill him. The smuggler hurled the second knife at the boy’s chest. Desfan widened his stance and swung one of his swords, batting the dagger in midair so it thumped harmlessly against the dirt floor. The smuggler cursed. The boy—Ori—shot a look at Desfan before he spun and darted for the nearest exit. Smart kid. Desfan faced the smuggler, blocking his path after the boy. “Smuggling, kidnapping, resisting arrest, and the abuse and attempted murder of a child. That’s quite the list you’ve built for yourself. Do you really want to add to it?” ReviewAuthor Heather Frost has written a novel that readers will love and that has it all. A fast paced adventure filled fantasy romance story filled with traitors and intrigue. Frost is excellent and the story and characters together in such a way that readers will be sucked in from the very beginning. Told again from various viewpoints, both main characters and side characters and their stories are deeply woven together into a fast paced tale that readers will not want to put down. Witn plenty of twists and turns and even jaw dropping moments, this story is the perfect anxiously awaited sequel to Royal Decoy.
Series: Fate of Eyrinthia Genre: young adult, fantasy, romance Publisher: Indie Publication date: May 20, 2021 Number of pages: 467 Other books in the series: 0.5-The Prince and the Prisoner 1-Royal Spy Disclosure statement: A complimentary review copy of this book was provided from tour groups, publishers, publicists, authors, and others, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, Or borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR borrowed from Deseret Bookshelf, OR pre-ordered/purchased for review, including Audible. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are my own. About the BookSeries: The Nereth Trilogy Genre: Young Adult, Fantasy, Fiction, Historical, Mideval Publisher: English Trails Publishing, LLC Publication date: May 26, 2020 Springtime has returned to Nereth, and a sense of hope continues to spread throughout the land. The people remain industrious and content as their fears of Raelin fade into distant memory. Back at her farm, Edlyn has nearly completed the restoration of her childhood home. When the time comes for her to meet again with the Council of Nereth, Maddock surprises Edlyn by arriving at her farm to accompany her to the capitol. Their happy reunion is cut short, however, by the alarming news that many of Nereth's teenagers have suddenly disappeared. As the council members hurriedly convene in the capitol, they discover that the situation is even worse than they feared: Raelin has returned and is plotting her final attack to regain control of the land. Now Edlyn, Maddock, and their stalwart friends must lead the last fight against Raelin to stop the ghost queen from taking control of Nereth forever. About the AuthorTJ Amberson hails from the Pacific Northwest, where she lives with her husband and nutty cocker spaniel. Her most recent novels include The Kingdom of Nereth, The Council of Nereth, Fusion, and Love at Lakewood Med. When she’s not writing, TJ can probably be found enjoying a hot chocolate, pretending to know how to garden, riding her bike, playing the piano, or surfing the Internet for cheap plane tickets. With a love of writing in multiple genres, TJ Amberson strives to provide well-written, age-appropriate, and original novels for tweens, teens, and new adults. 10 of my Favorite Things:1) Traveling in Europe 2) The scent of freshly mowed grass 3) Stargazing 4) Musicals 5) The sound of the ocean 6) Christmastime 7) Playing the piano 8) Taking walks 9) All things autumn 10) Hot chocolate SnippetAll was silence. Maddock released Edlyn's hand and began turning slowly in a circle to survey the clearing. Edlyn dropped her hands to her knees and bent at the waist, working to catch her breath. Harper collapsed shakily against a tree, her face pale and her eyes wide. Peyton wearily wiped the perspiration from his brow with one hand while placing the other on the hilt of his axe. After a long time, Edlyn stood up straight and joined Maddock in taking in the sight of the unknown forest that encircled them. She shivered as the reality of their situation sunk in. They were alone. They were lost. And they were fleeing from a cursed army that they could not fight and did not know how to defeat. The final war against Raelin had begun. GiveawayEnter to win a $15 Amazon Gift Card. Enter the giveaway HERE. Giveaway ends on July 7 at 11:59pm Mountain Time. Subject to all policies HERE. Tour ScheduleFollow along with the tour schedule HERE.
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